Doyle signs Indian mascot bill

Governor Jim Doyle signs legislation into law that’s gotten a lot of attention as of late — whether Wisconsin public schools should continue using Native American mascots, team names and logos.

Doyle had recently said, “I think Native American people legitimately have a beef, at times, with what mascots are and how they’re depicted.” But Doyle was quick to add that not all mascots are discriminatory, although some do perpetuate Indian stereotypes.

Doyle says if it’s used with pride, a local tribe agrees with its use, and it has educational value, then let it be.

The measure (SB-25) requires that the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction investigate complaints about Indian names, logos or mascots. If the state superintendent agrees with the complaint, the district must end usage within a year, or face fines of up to $1,000 a day.